What Does a Real Estate Agent Do?

Table of contents

• Types of real estate agents
• What does a buyer's agent do?
• What does a listing agent do?
• Why should I work with a real estate agent? 

A real estate agent is a licensed professional who represents either a buyer or a seller and their interests in a home sale transaction. The responsibilities of a real estate agent vary depending on whether they’re helping you sell, buy, or both. 

According to a 2025 Zillow survey, 84% of buyers said they worked with an agent to shop, search for, or purchase their home. Here, we’ll guide you through their role.

Types of real estate agents

Not all real estate agents serve the same role in a home sale. The two primary types are buyer's agents and listing agents (also called seller's agents), and some agents work as dual agents representing both parties in a single transaction (rules around this vary by state). The right agent for you depends on your needs.

Buyer's agent

A buyer's agent represents the interests of the home buyer. Their job is to help you find the right property, make a competitive offer, and guide you from contract to closing.

Listing agent (Seller's agent)

A listing agent represents the home seller. They help price the property, market it to potential buyers, and negotiate the best terms on your behalf.

Dual agent

A dual agent represents both the buyer and seller in the same transaction. This could be the case if you’re transferring a home between family members, for example. This arrangement requires written consent from both parties and is not permitted in all states. 

Because of the inherent conflict of interest, many industry professionals recommend working with separate representation. Why? Because when one agent is working both sides of a transaction, their incentives might shift. Pushing harder for a higher selling price only earns them a little more commission, but losing the buyer to another agent means splitting that commission with someone else entirely. So the math may nudge them toward closing the deal they have now, rather than holding out for a better one for the seller. Zillow research found that sellers who go the dual-agency route walk away with an average of $2,165 less than they could have.

The difference between an agent and a broker

An agent and a broker are not the same. A real estate agent is supervised by a broker, while a broker can work independently or manage and supervise agents. And agents can become real estate brokers if they get the required experience and education.

What does a buyer’s agent do?

1. Reduce home-buying stress

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced property investor, it’s common to feel overwhelmed by the purchasing process. You have to consider your home affordability, whether a neighborhood is the right fit for you and your lifestyle, and many other factors. A real estate agent takes time to understand your unique needs — whether that’s your budget, the home’s proximity to schools, commute times, or even the perfect backyard for your furry friend.

2. Navigate the market

A key responsibility of a real estate agent is to stay up-to-date on local market trends. Agents have insight into which neighborhoods are gaining in value and popularity. They are aware of both new and existing listings and can provide knowledgeable advice based on a buyer’s needs. 

3. Negotiate terms of the transaction 

When the time comes to negotiate with the seller, real estate agents are able to have those conversations on your behalf. Agents will take the lead in negotiating price reductions, repair requests after initial home inspections, and reviewing other key terms of the contract. Your buyer’s agent will look out for your best interests to secure you the most favorable terms, all while keeping the process as stress-free as possible.

4. Simplify paperwork

When buying a home, buyers are faced with a mountain of paperwork. While your agent can’t walk you through everything, they can guide you through the home’s purchase agreement in a thorough and comprehensive way, streamlining an otherwise exhaustive task. Agents understand how to prioritize deadlines and simplify a contract or a clause to an inexperienced buyer in order to avoid costly mistakes.

5. Refer you to professionals in their network

Real estate agents develop a network to build a business, so they likely know of other professionals you may need during the home-buying process. Your agent may be able to refer you to lenders, home inspectors, and contractors. Two-in-five (61%) pre-approved buyers said they used a lender referral from their real estate agent, realtor, or broker.

6. Process coordination

Real estate agents understand that the purchasing process can move quickly and involves constant communication. A buyer’s agent will coordinate with the seller’s agent at all hours of the day to make sure things are moving well, and keep your loan officer and attorney updated on where the process is at. You can focus on preparing for closing day while your buyer’s agent juggles the various conversations, deadlines, and tasks. 

7. Advocate your best interests 

Throughout the highs and the lows of the home-buying process, your real estate agent will be in your corner. Agents alleviate the frustrations that can arise throughout the purchasing journey, and yours should work with you to ensure that all needs, from home financing to closing, are addressed. 

What does a listing agent do?

1. Price your home strategically

Setting the right price to sell your home is crucial to attracting buyers quickly while also maximizing your profit. A real estate agent evaluates the market, runs a comparative market analysis (CMA), and considers your home’s unique features to set a competitive and accurate listing price. The CMA report analyzes three or more recently sold properties similar to the home in question, usually chosen based on their similarities in size, location, age, and quality.

2. Prepare your home for sale

A real estate agent provides valuable advice on how to make your home more appealing to buyers. From recommending minor repairs to suggesting staging techniques, they ensure your property puts its best foot forward. Some listing agents may even connect you with trusted professionals, like painters or stagers, to handle the details.

3. Market your property effectively

Once your home is ready to list, a real estate agent launches a comprehensive marketing strategy to attract potential buyers. This often includes professional photography, creating a compelling listing description, leveraging social media platforms, and listing your property on top real estate websites to maximize your property’s exposure. 

Having an experienced agent to help you craft an effective listing is important. Connect with a Zillow Premier Agent in your area today. 

4. Host open houses and showings

A seller’s agent handles scheduling and hosting open houses or private showings, saving you the time and hassle. They’ll highlight your home's most desirable features during these events, answering buyer questions, and encouraging interest.

5. Negotiate offers

When offers start coming in, your real estate agent serves as your advocate and negotiator. They’ll help you evaluate offers, understand contingencies, and negotiate terms to ensure you get the best possible deal.

6. Manage paperwork and timelines

When selling a home, you’ll come across all kinds of paperwork and documents that need reviewing and signing. From the purchase agreement to disclosure forms, a seller’s agent ensures various documents are properly prepared, signed, and filed. 

7. Navigate challenges

Every transaction can come with surprises, from appraisal issues to repair requests. A real estate agent is your problem-solver, advocating for your best interests and finding solutions to keep the sale on track. They’re there for you, no matter what curveballs arise.

8. Guide you through closing

When it’s time to close the deal, your agent will guide you through the final steps. They’ll ensure you understand the settlement process and are fully prepared for a stress-free closing day.

A real estate agent is more than just a salesperson — they're an ally, an advocate, and a professional you can trust. By handling the complexities of selling a home, an agent will free you to focus on your next chapter with confidence.

Why should I work with a real estate agent? 

Working with a real estate agent gives you access to expert market knowledge, negotiation skills, and guidance throughout the buying or selling process. They can save you time, help you avoid costly mistakes, and ensure you get the best deal possible. Whether navigating paperwork or finding the perfect property, their expertise makes the process smoother and less stressful.